Volkswagen Models Review

Volkswagen is the second largest automobile manufacturer in the world and has three of the most popular cars ever built in its lineup. They still produce modern versions each of their popular classics. Volkswagen called Wolfsburg, Germany home since its founding in 1937.

Volkswagen manufacturers a complete line of compacts, sedans, wagons and SUVs that include some of the most iconic and popular models ever released. Their compact offerings include the Volkswagen Golf, Golf GTI, Eos convertible and the Beetle. Both the Golf and the Beetle are two of their famous brands that made the 24/7 Wall Street list of top ten most popular vehicles of all time. These models have been wildly popular for decades and have helped to spawn a revolution in the compact car marketplace with their innovative styling and fuel efficiency. Modern versions of these classics feature upgraded styling and accessories like a convertible roof on the Beetle.

The Golf chassis is a 5-door hatchback model, whereas the Beetle and the Eos are 2-door sedans. The sedan category includes the Volkswagen Jetta, Passat and CC. Each model offers a collection of upgrade options that allow the driver to customise the car to their liking. The CC model is their higher end offering and includes many of the features a luxury car needs to keep the driver happy. Volkswagen produces a version of the Jetta in a wagon styling called the Jetta SportWagen that is a 5-door hatchback and provides additional space in the boot for storage when compared to a standard hatchback.

Finally, Volkswagen builds two SUV models, the Tiguan and Touareg. The Tiguan is a sporty SUV, and the Touareg is a premium model. Both of these chassis are a 5-door hatchback and offer a selection of engine choices and other upgrades like advanced audio and navigation.

Buying Used Volkswagen Sedans

Buying Used Volkswagen Sedans

Volkswagen is a very well known and highly respected German auto manufacturer. The company has its headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany and may be best known for the Volkswagen Beetle. Volkswagen began producing cars in the 1930s and today, its sedans like the Passat, Beetle and Jetta are some of the most reliable cars in the world. New or used, Volkswagens are an excellent value for the money due to their reliability and excellent fuel economy.

Volkswagen Sedan Body Styles

Volkswagen sedans come in the same basic body styles as other sedans. Hatchback sedans have three or five doors and the term 'hatchback' refers to the large door that opens up to the boot. These are particularly handy when loading and unloading groceries, pets or bulky items. Two-door sedans do not give the appearance of a family car as much as the four-door models but make unloading passengers tricky. Four-door sedans are perfect for drivers with small children, as getting them in and out of the car is a snap. Some Volkswagen sedans like the Eos and Beetle are available with a convertible top. One thing potential owners should be aware of when it comes to the convertible is that folding the top down reduces the boot's storage space from 300 to 190 litres since the roof is stored in the boot.

Engine Sizes

Volkswagen sedans come with a variety of engine sizes. The most common size for a small sedan is a 2.0-litre inline 4 engine. These engines are still in use today in vehicles such as the Passat and the Tiguan. Hybrid engines such as those found in the Jetta Hybrid are generally 1.4-litre inline 4 engines. Newer models may have an engine as large as a 2.5-litre V6.

Fuel Economy

Petrol or diesel fuel consumption for used cars varies by vehicle and is dependent upon how well the previous owner cared for the car and performed its scheduled maintenance. Generally, a Passat gets around 45 kilometres per litre in the city and out on the open road, it averages around 64 kilometres per litre. The Jetta gets slightly better fuel economy and a diesel engine typically outperforms a petrol engine in fuel economy.

Safety Features

Volkswagen puts a variety of passive and active safety features into each of its automobiles and the company takes the safety of drivers and passengers very seriously. Volkswagens come standard with driver's and passenger side airbags, advanced vehicle lighting placement and a smaller than average blind spot. The company has worked tirelessly to limit the amount of road noise coming from its cars, which may be a distraction to some drivers. Anti-lock brakes, assisted braking technology and an advanced suspension help the driver maintain control in any terrain and any weather event.

Volkswagen Sedan Models

When shopping for a used Volkswagen sedan, it helps to know a little something about the models that are available for sale. Two of the most popular sedans in South Africa are the Passat and the Jetta. Both of these models offer excellent fuel consumption and come in either a two-door or a four-door body style. The Volkswagen Beetle is a small, sporty sedan that is available in either a hardtop or convertible and despite its small size, seats up to four adults. The Polo is another popular model that comes with either a manual or an automatic transmission and is one of the more inexpensive used sedan models.

How to Buy a Used Toyota Sedan

Whether this is a car buyer's first experience with buying a used car or a consumer just wants to be extra careful, there are things to remember when shopping for a used Volkswagen sedan. An owner should be forthcoming with any information about accidents the car has been involved in and work he or she has had done in the past. There should be no visible leaks in the engine compartment or underneath the car. Water, antifreeze or oil leaking may be signs of serious problem. Test-driving the car should reveal nothing like a rough ride, harsh shifting from the transmission or odd noises coming from the engine. Knowing what to look for can save a lot of time and money down the road and ensure a consumer is getting exactly what he or she is paying for. If a car has issues or something concerns a prospective buyer, it is better to walk away.

Conclusion

No matter which Volkswagen sedan a driver chooses, he or she is guaranteed to purchase a car that is reliable, gets dependable fuel economy and is safe to drive. Volkswagen spends a lot of money on research and listens to its customers. This gives the company a distinct advantage over other car manufacturers when it comes to producing automobiles people can be proud to own. Volkswagen are the perfect choice for busy parents or for those who want a fun car to help them escape the stress of the city and head out for a much needed holiday. The latest listings on Gumtree show consumers used Volkswagen sedans in South Africa at affordable prices.

Things to Consider When Buying a Volkswagen SUV

Things to Consider When Buying a Volkswagen SUV

Shopping for a used SUV can be difficult, especially if one does not know what to look for. There are plenty of things to take into consideration and although Volkswagen does not make many SUVs, there are still things like body style, engine size and towing capacity a consumer must think about before making a purchase. Volkswagens are built tough with a wealth of safety features and options available that are sure to make drivers happy.

New Versus Used

Some people cringe at the thought of buying a used vehicle. Taking the plunge into the unknown can be frightening, especially when a person is paying a lot of money and taking the word of someone else about how the car has been treated in the past. Volkswagens can put up with a lot of abuse and still run for many years to come. When shopping for a used Volkswagen SUV, it is important to take the time to research all the options, visually inspect and thoroughly test-drive each vehicle and make the most educated decision possible.

Body Style

Most SUVs come in a five-door style, and some like the Touran resemble a van more than a SUV. Each style comes with a large cargo area perfect for hauling large, bulky items or loading and unloading the family pet. Volkswagen SUVs come with either five or seven seats, depending on the model, so they are perfect for a large family or taking a trip with friends.

Engine Sizes

Since Volkswagen released its first SUV in 2002, power and dependability have been its primary concerns. The engines in the SUVs range from a 1.2-litre inline 4 petrol engine to a 2.0-litre diesel engine. Each engine offers the power and versatility to navigate around city streets and rough terrain and every SUV model is available with either a petrol or diesel engine. Unfortunately, the fuel economy for the different Volkswagen SUV models is considerably less than that of other models, with the average being around 29 kilometres per litre in the city to 41 kilometres on the highway.

Volkswagen SUV Models

For the last several years, there have been only three Volkswagen SUVs available. The Touareg has been around since 2002 and is a five-door, mid-size SUV that comes with either two or three rows of seats. Consumers looking for a smaller SUV may enjoy the Tiguan, which uses the Golf's platform. The Tiguan features two rows of seating and a small, economical four-cylinder engine. The Volkswagen Touran launched in 2003 and is available with room to seat up to seven adults.

Drivetrain Options

The drivetrain includes the parts of the car that attach the transmission to the wheels. Drivetrain power is important for those who will be using their SUV to tow things like boats, or for those who will be hauling heavy loads. Towing capacity is the weight of an object that can be safely towed with a vehicle and Volkswagen SUVs have a towing capacity of around 1 000 kilogrammes. Consumers who plan to use their SUV to tow cars, boats or other objects should research the towing capacity on the models in which they are interested.

Safety Features

Volkswagen puts a high priority on the safety of its drivers, passengers and pedestrians. All three of Volkswagen's SUVs have earned a five-star safety rating and the company includes things like driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, brake assist, seat belt pretensioners and tyre pressure monitors to help people stay as safe as possible. Newer models, as in those built after 2009, have more advanced features such as, electronic stability control, traction control and advanced airbag features.

Transmission Options

In South Africa, all three Volkswagen SUVs come with the option of a manual or automatic transmission. The Touareg has a six-speed transmission and the Touran has the option of a five or six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The Tiguan is unique in that it has the option of a seven speed, dual-clutch transmission.

Conclusion

Volkswagen has been making automobiles for more than 70 years. It is the second-largest auto manufacturer in the world and the largest in its home country of Germany. In 2011, Volkswagen had the distinction of spending more money on research and development than any car manufacturer in the world. This dedication to quality and safety is excellent news for the used car buyer. Volkswagen builds quality automobiles that can travel for hundreds of thousands of kilometres without breaking down. By purchasing a used Volkswagen SUV, consumers are almost guaranteed to get a vehicle that will save them money on costly repairs down the road. Volkswagens hold their resale value extremely well and when the time comes to sell, consumers who have taken care of their vehicles can expect a large return on their investment. Consumers can begin their search for the ideal used Volkswagen SUV on Gumtree and find a reliable vehicle at an affordable price.

Top Factors to Take Into Account When Buying a Volkswagen Truck

Top Factors to Take Into Account When Buying a Volkswagen Truck

Buying a Volkswagen pickup truck can be a stressful process, as there are so many things to consider. From the size of the vehicle to fuel consumption and from safety features to interior qualities, buyers need to pay attention to numerous elements. Volkswagen trucks have a good reputation for their reliability and safety, so they could be a good choice for those people looking for a compact or midsize truck for work. Reading more about the top factors to consider when it comes to buying a pickup truck can help buyers make the right choice and get good value for their money.

Volkswagen Amarok Characteristics

Even though Volkswagen has a good history when it comes to commercial vehicles, pickup trucks have only entered the fleet of the German manufacturer recently. The truck produced by Volkswagen is the VW Amarok, a midsize truck that offers drivers good storage space as well as reliability and cabin comfort. Buyers can choose from two types of Amarok trucks, either single and double cab. Turbocharged Direct Injection diesel or turbocharged gasoline engines power both types of VW trucks.

Engine and Performance of Volkswagen Trucks

The two versions of the Volkswagen Amarok come equipped with a range of Fuel Stratified Injection petrol engines and Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engines. The 2010 models feature an engine range that consists of two 2.0 L TDI engines, which were upgraded starting with the 2012 models. The engines are powerful enough for a truck of this size, offering good performance and flexibility. The average fuel consumption of the VW Amarok trucks is more than 36 miles per gallon. Automatic and manual transmissions are available for all Amarok models.

Interior Features of the Volkswagen Amarok

Getting that "car-like" feeling in a truck is often something difficult to achieve, but with the Amarok, drivers get something very close to that feeling. Both the single and double cab are comfortable. Passengers receive consideration as well with the rear seats providing plenty of leg room. The standard equipment of the Amarok is quite generous, featuring electric windows, heated electric mirrors, semi-automatic air conditioning, as well as a CD/radio. Upgraded versions come with extra features that can make the driving experience more comfortable. These include a multifunction trip computer, cruise control two-zone automatic air-conditioning, and a six-speaker stereo. The gear lever and the steering wheel are leather covered and the front seats have storage drawers underneath.

Volkswagen Amarok Safety Features

One of the safest pickup trucks on the market, the VW Amarok comes with ABS brakes and electronic stability programme (ESP) as standard. The vehicle also has an off-road function that makes it easy to drive in muddy conditions. There is a hill start and descent assist as well, which allows drivers to tackle steep inclines with ease. All versions of this VW truck come with driver, head, and front passenger airbags as standard. Volkswagen is a company known for taking safety very seriously, and this is certainly visible in the Amarok as well.

Volkswagen Amarok Load Space

As with any other type of vehicle used for carrying tools and equipment, the load space is a very important thing to consider when buying a pickup truck. The Amarok has a volume of at least 2.5 square meters. Different versions from different years may have more than that. The double cab usually has larger load space than the single cab. Most versions of this VW truck can carry in excess of one tonne. All versions can tow a trailer of up to 3 tonnes. There are several extras available for those who intend to use the vehicle for towing. These include a variety of covers to secure the load bed as well as an electric tow bar.

Volkswagen Amarok Variations

When shopping for a VW Amarok truck, buyers can opt for some of the special editions made available through the years. The VW Amarok XXL comes with a longer wheelbase and an extended bed that provides owners with 2.21 metres of space. This is a good choice for those people who are looking for a vehicle they can use extensively for towing. Cab chassis versions of the single and double cab are also available as of 2012.

Conclusion

Whether one needs a pickup truck to ease their work as contractors or are in need of a vehicle powerful enough to perform towing duties, a Volkswagen truck could be the right choice. When shopping for a used Volkswagen truck, consumers have to decide first what features and extra options are essential to them. Some may need a small truck with good fuel consumption, whereas others may prefer a truck with a powerful engine. After deciding what truck would be a good option, consumers can proceed to searching for a used Volkswagen truck on Gumtree that embodies all their preferences.

Essential Factors to Consider When Buying a Volkswagen Van

Essential Factors to Consider When Buying a Volkswagen Van

Volkswagen is one of the best-known German auto manufacturers, famous for producing budget friendly passenger and commercial vehicles. Volkswagen vans come in a wide variety of version, ranging from vans suitable for contractors to passenger vans and pickup trucks. Whether one is looking for a used van that will allow his or her business to pick up items, or for a van to transport passengers, there is a Volkswagen van for every task. Learning more about the different types of Volkswagen vans and what to look for when purchasing one can help consumers make the right choice every time.

Types of Volkswagen Vans

Volkswagen vans come in a variety of styles that make it easy for buyers to find one that suits their needs. The main two reasons to purchase a Volkswagen van are to transport people and for carrying supplies or tools for a business. The Volkswagen Caddy and Volkswagen Transporter are two of the most popular Volkswagen vans on the market. Both of them are award-winning vans. The Caddy is one of the best choices on the market for a contractor's van, whereas the Transporter is an excellent choice for those who are interested in persons transport. Other types of Volkswagen vans include the Volkswagen Crafter, which offers immense cargo space and clever features for hard work, and the Crafter Window Van, a nine-seat van that is suitable for taking a crew to work or for airport transfers.

Engine Options for the Volkswagen Caddy

First released in 1980, the Volkswagen Caddy has quickly become one of the most popular choices for small businesses and independent contractors in need for a small-sized van to carry their tools and supplies to work day by day. The Caddy has undergone multiple modifications since its initial release and buyers can find it in various engine versions. The first generation of VW Caddy came with a selection of petrol and diesel engines, with the most powerful of them being the 1,8-litre petrol 70 kW engine. The engine power of the second generation increased slightly, but it was the third generation released in 2003 that came with a selection of powerful 2,0-litre petrol and diesel engines. VW Caddy vans manufactured after 2003 may also come with a 2,0-litre Eco-Fuel engine.

Engine Options for the Volkswagen Transporter

The Volkswagen Transporter has an even longer history than the Caddy, with the first generation debuting in 1950. Modern VW Transporter vehicles manufactured after 2002 are part of the fifth generation of VW Transporter. The range of Transporter T5 vans include panel vans, high-roof panel vans, pickup trucks, half-panel vans, and shuttle minibuses. The range also includes a range of people movers called Shuttle, Kombi, Caravelle, and Multivan. The selection of engines varies from one type of Transporter to another, with options including 2,0-litre petrol and diesel and 3,2-litre VR6 petrol engines.

Interior Features of a Volkswagen Van

The interior of Volkswagen vans varies from one model to another, but most of them offer drivers and passenger comfort and plenty of space. The VW Caddy offers a car-like experience and drivers can enjoy a range of features that makes driving more pleasant. There is plenty of space in the Caddy to store documents without getting a feeling of clutter. All VW Caddy vans come with a CD/Radio, but buyers can also upgrade to a RCD 310 sound system with ParkPilot display. Rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, and body-coloured bumpers are further options. Some VW Transporter vehicles come with a Kenwood DAB Multimedia system that is ideal for handling phone calls, navigating, and watching DVDs on a break.

Volkswagen Vans Safety Features

All VW vans come with a variety of safety options that make the vehicles perfect for keeping the driver and passengers out of harm's way. Some of the safety features that come as standard on the VW Caddy for example include antilock braking system (ABS), electronic stabilisation programme (ESP), traction control, driver and front passenger airbags, automatic hazard lights activation under emergency braking, front side airbags, engine drag torque control, electronic differential lock, and daytime running lights. The VW Transporter comes with a similar range of features, with ABS, driver and passenger front airbags, and ESP coming standard.

Conclusion

Buying a commercial van is a decision one should not take lightly. From engine performance to safety, there are multiple factors to take into account when shopping for a Volkswagen van. Buyers should make sure they know exactly what they need in a van before deciding on a particular model. Once they know which type of VW van would be a good choice for their business requirements, they can search on Gumtree for a used Volkswagen van that meets all their criteria.